The Colombia midfielder is expected to sign a five-year deal at the Bernabeu and it is believed he will earn 7.5 million euros per season after tax, with Real thought to be paying around 70 million euros plus a player for his services.

AS also suggests that Monaco asked for Pepe to be included in the James deal but that Madrid were not willing to let the centre-back leave; Brazil midfielder Casemiro appears to be the most likely makeweight.